Variable Cross-Section Speed Limiter for Selective Traffic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing speed-limiting traffic systems are uncomfortable, noisy, cause mechanical breakdowns, and sometimes lead to accidents, as they affect all vehicles equally, including emergency vehicles, and do not effectively address urban traffic flow and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A protruding road element with a curved shape and variable cross-section that allows vehicles of different sizes to pass without obstruction, prioritizing speed reduction for larger vehicles while allowing smaller ones to follow a straight path, thereby minimizing disruptions to emergency vehicles and improving road safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protruding elements are applied equally to all types of vehicles, then speed control is achieved for all vehicles, but emergency vehicles experience delays in response times
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding element features a non-uniform cross-section with different heights at different positions. The maximum height is less than or equal to the clearance of the smallest vehicle to be controlled, while the minimum height at the ends is less than or equal to the clearance of the largest vehicle. This local variation in height allows selective speed control based on vehicle size without completely blocking emergency vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the protruding element, specifically the cross-sectional dimensions. By defining the maximum width at the center and minimum width at the ends, the element creates different resistance levels for different vehicle types, allowing emergency vehicles to pass through with minimal obstruction while still controlling the speed of larger vehicles.
2Ease of manufacture
If protruding elements have a uniform cross-section, then manufacturing is simplified, but they cause mechanical breakdowns and discomfort to occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding element has a variable cross-section that is reduced at the ends and bulged in the middle. This local variation in geometry allows the element to guide vehicles smoothly rather than creating abrupt obstacles, reducing mechanical stress on vehicles and discomfort for occupants while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple geometric forms.
3Reliability
If protruding elements are designed to affect all vehicles, then speed limitation is achieved, but public transport vehicles and heavy goods vehicles experience unnecessary delays
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding element's cross-section varies along its length, with the maximum width at the center and reduced width at the ends. This creates a selective effect where larger vehicles like public transport and heavy goods vehicles are guided to follow a curved path and reduce speed, while smaller vehicles can pass through with minimal disruption, maintaining overall traffic flow efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for limiting the speed of moving traffic. The device comprises at least one protruding element designed to be positioned on the surface of a road that is open to traffic. The protruding element is characterized in that the shape and dimensions thereof are such that it affects only vehicles of certain sizes, the speed of which is to be controlled. Likewise, vehicles travelling at an acceptable speed and along an appropriate path are also not affected by the device of the invention.